SOP
Ever since I was a child, I envisioned myself following a stable, structured path—one that
mirrored my father’s 9-to-5 routine. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I began to
reflect more deeply on what contentment truly means. I realized that while my father was
happy, there was a subtle lack of fulfilment—a quiet resignation to a life shaped by the goals
of others rather than his own. That insight sparked a profound shift in my own objectives.
Over the past three years, during my undergraduate studies in Computer Science, I developed
a strong resolve: I want to build something of my own. I want to start a company that makes
an impact—not just in terms of profits, but in people’s lives. And to do that, I need to learn
how to manage, lead, and grow ventures with both empathy and strategy. Pursuing an MSc in
Management at UCL is the next crucial step in this journey.
Currently, I am pursuing two degrees simultaneously—[Link] in Computer Science with a
specialization in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning from SRM Institute of Science
and Technology, and a BS in Data Science and Applications from IIT Madras. Managing
both has taught me discipline, prioritization, and time management which are the skills I
consider essential for any future entrepreneur. My interest in technology and impact-led
business grew as I explored not just coding and development, but how these skills could solve
real-world problems.
I’ve also gained valuable professional experience through internships. At HT Media, I was
part of the product development team, where I learned about how digital products are
designed and positioned for users. During my time at BAI Infosolutions, I worked on writing
technical blogs and understanding industry trends. Most recently, I interned at Infosys, where
I led a 10-member team to develop a Library Management System app for iOS. This
experience didn’t just strengthen my leadership skills—it gave me a vision for scaling the
product for use in my own college’s library, and eventually for public libraries to improve
access and efficiency.
Outside academics and internships, I’m deeply involved in social initiatives. I founded an
NGO, Kaushal Up Foundation, which focuses on community development through
education, awareness, and skill-building. Our fundraiser ‘Books for a Cause’ brought people
together to donate, exchange, and discover books, while promoting reading as a habit and
making literature accessible. Events like these have shown me the power of combining
purpose with action, and they’ve shaped how I view leadership—not just as influence, but as
responsibility.
I’ve also taken on formal leadership roles during my undergraduate journey. At
the Ramanujan Mathematics Club in my college, I helped bring two sponsors on board and
coordinated between professors, juniors, and external collaborators to organize events. These
opportunities allowed me to work on budgeting, marketing, and building relationships—all
skills I hope to refine further at UCL.
I am particularly drawn to the MSc in Management at UCL because of its structure and
versatility. The combination of core modules and electives will allow me to shape my
learning around areas like innovation, entrepreneurship, and strategic management—all of
which are essential to my goals. Modules such as Entrepreneurial Finance, Innovation and
Strategy, and Managing the Growing Firm directly resonate with the kind of practical, hands-
on knowledge I’m seeking.
Beyond academics, what excites me is the lively campus culture and the student-led clubs
and societies. As someone who plays guitar, enjoys reading and writing, and values creative
expression, I look forward to being part of UCL’s music and literature communities. I also
enjoy golf, which has helped me develop patience, focus, and mental discipline—qualities
that have helped me both in team settings and personal growth. I would love to contribute to
campus life through initiatives that bring together students across cultures, disciplines, and
passions.
In the short term, my goal is to take Kaushal Up Foundation to a national level, scaling our
projects and helping more people across India. Long-term, I want to build a for-profit
organization that works on the same principles—bridging gaps in access, using technology
meaningfully, and creating products or services that leave a real impact. I believe social
change and financial sustainability can go hand in hand, and I want to be part of building that
bridge.
To do all of this, I need a strong foundation in business, leadership, and global exposure. I
believe UCL, with its academic reputation, entrepreneurial spirit, and central location in
London, offers the perfect environment for me to grow and learn. I am excited at the
possibility of contributing to and learning from such a diverse and inspiring community.
